Kevin Rivard

Kevin Rivard became a member of the San Francisco Opera Orchestra in 2008, holding the position of Co-Principal French Horn. He is renowned for his "delicious quality of tone" and concurrently serves as the Principal Horn in the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra. In addition to his orchestral roles, he has earned recognition as a soloist and chamber musician. His performances have graced stages with distinguished ensembles, including the New Century Chamber Orchestra, Music@Menlo, the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, and the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center.

Throughout his career, Kevin Rivard has claimed victory in numerous solo competitions, securing prestigious titles such as the Grand Prize at the 2008 Concours International d'Interpretation Musicale in Paris, the 2007 International Horn Competition of America, and the 2003 Farkas Solo Horn competition. His musical journey has also led him to guest as Principal Horn with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and perform with the Philadelphia and Metropolitan Opera Orchestras. Notably, he was featured as a soloist with the Houston Symphony. Prior to his roles in San Francisco, Kevin Rivard held positions with the Colorado Symphony and Florida Orchestra.

A Juilliard graduate, Mr. Rivard has lent his musical talents to various festivals and ensembles, including the Santa Fe Opera, the Sarasota Music Festival, the Norfolk Chamber Music, and the Verbier Music Festivals. In addition to his performance career, he shares his passion for music education as the Horn professor at San Jose State University. Mr. Rivard is deeply dedicated to teaching and inspiring young students. He remains committed to nurturing future talent, and as part of this commitment, he dedicates his time to volunteer at local schools, sharing live music performances with youth and extending the opportunity for as many children as possible to enjoy the magic of live music.